2008 Cadillac XLR vs. 1968 Fiat 500
To start off, 2008 Cadillac XLR is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 4,371 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac XLR (444 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 426 more horse power than 1968 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1968 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 1050 kg more than 1968 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Fiat 500 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1968 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Cadillac XLR (561 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 534 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Fiat 500. 2008 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1968 Fiat 500 has manual transmission. 1968 Fiat 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac XLR | 1968 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Fiat |
| Model | XLR | 500 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4371 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 18 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 561 Nm | 27 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 67.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1330 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 22 L |
